Y2K fashion, velcro roller blowouts – in 2023, everything old is new again. And that goes for one skincare product that’s had the ultimate glow-up of late – the (now-not-so) humble facial toner.
After years spent languishing under the bathroom sink, toner is back on our shelfies. But boy, is it different. Nothing like the harsh, astringent formulas of old that left your skin tight, stinging and screaming for hydration, today’s toners are liquid wonders with soothing, hydrating and exfoliating benefits. The beauty world is – quite rightly – obsessed with them. And you soon will be too.
But what even is a face toner? And how can you use one to level up your skincare routine? For the answers to these and all your other questions, read on.
What are face toners?
If you ever struggled with oily skin or spots in your teens, you’ll definitely have followed a three-step ‘cleanse, tone, moisturise’ routine, probably using a toner with a hefty concentration of alcohol which was common in the past.
Today’s toners, thank goodness, are a totally different breed. Loved by K-Beauty fans and derms alike, face toners are a fast-absorbed liquid that hydrates and balances skin, improves the absorption of face serums, and generally supercharges your skincare results. Now typically alcohol-free, these new-gen formulas treat the whole gamut of skin concerns, not just acne.
Who's it for?
Fun fact: If you have a face, you’ll probably benefit from the use of a face toner. All you need to do is to select one that targets your main concerns – whether that’s dark spots, dullness, pimples, uneven texture, large pores, fine lines, or dehydration. That’s right, dehydration – the very thing that old-school toners used to cause.
Sensitive skin? Seek out formulas that help boost the skin’s moisture barrier with hyaluronic acid and soothing, redness-reducing niacinamide (Vitamin B3). We’ve included both in our all-new Marshmallow Toner – alongside prized anti-irritant and moisturising ingredient, marshmallow root extract.
What benefits can I expect from a toner?
Depending on the ingredients used, toners can deliver a raft of skincare benefits – ranging from smaller pores, plumper and brighter skin, a reduction in breakouts to a more even complexion. In addition to antioxidants like niacinamide and plumping ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, many toners also contain chemical exfoliants such as AHAs and/or BHA which smoothen the skin and deliver a youthful-looking glow.
Wait, a toner can exfoliate, too?
You betcha! Exfoliating toners are one of the hottest skincare trends right now thanks to their ability to deliver a gentle and effective chemical exfoliation, minus the irritation that can be caused by some face scrubs.
Enriched with 5% glycolic acid plus natural AHAs, Australian Finger Lime and salicylic acid, our Marshmallow Toner is an exfoliating toner that helps to sweep away dead skin cells and refine pores, while hydrating, soothing and fortifying your skin to achieve a plump, smooth and radiant complexion.
Do I really need to add an extra skincare step?
A toner isn’t as essential as, say, sunscreen, but it will really enhance your skincare results. Especially exfoliating toners, using them is the perfect way to prime your skin for the rest of your skincare routine. After removing dead ol’ skin cells, it improves the penetration of your active serums so they’ll get you glowing sooner.
How to incorporate face toner into your routine
A face toner is designed to be used after cleansing and before your serum/s and moisturiser, morning and/or night. Hint: If your toner contains exfoliating acids (like ours), apply it as part of your PM routine only to wake up fresh-faced.
To use, soak a cotton pad with toner and swipe over your face and neck, avoiding the eye and lip areas. Do this right after cleansing on ever-so-slightly damp skin, then allow the toner a moment to absorb before applying your favourite serum and moisturiser.
Ready to get smoother, stronger, happier skin? Shop our new Marshmallow Toner now.
